Birthmark Removal: Should You or Shouldn’t You?

Birthmarks are common, affecting millions of people worldwide. While many birthmarks are harmless, some can have a significant psychological impact, especially if they are large or prominently displayed. For individuals who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable with their birthmarks, birthmark removal may seem like an attractive option.

If you’ve been considering birthmark removal, this blog will help you determine if it’s the right decision for you.

Understanding Birthmarks

Birthmarks come in various forms, each with its own characteristics. Two of the most common types are vascular and pigmented birthmarks.

Vascular birthmarks are caused by incorrectly formed blood vessels. Examples include hemangiomas (red, raised bumps), macular stains (faint red marks) and port-wine stains (flat, red patches).

Pigmented birthmarks are caused by an excess of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Some common examples of pigmented birthmarks are café-au-lait spots (oval-shaped, flat, brown spots), Mongolian spots (bluish-grey patches on babies’ lower back, buttocks, or legs), and moles.

The cause of birthmarks remains a mystery. They are not the result of any actions or mistakes mothers make during pregnancy but rather occur spontaneously. While some birthmarks may be inherited and resemble those seen in family members, most are not.

Birthmarks, while generally harmless, can pose certain risks to self-esteem and body image, primarily when located in prominent areas.

Another risk is if you have pigmented birthmarks, mainly moles, you may have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. 

Also, while rare, birthmarks can be associated with other conditions, including growths on internal organs like the liver, lungs, stomach, or intestines.

Consult our dermatologists at ENRICH for regular check-ups of your birthmarks, especially when they first appear. Early detection can help identify potential issues and determine the appropriate action.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms, such as bleeding, pain, itching, or infection.

Reasons for Birthmark Removal

• Usually either for cosmetic or medical reasons
• Placement
• Type of birthmark

Birthmark Removal Process

The most common reason many people consider birthmark removal is related to physical appearance and self-esteem, particularly for large and visible birthmarks. The emotional distress caused can lead to social anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. 

In some cases, birthmarks can interfere with daily activities or cause discomfort. For example, a large birthmark around the eye area might impair vision, and a birthmark on the hands could limit dexterity.

Whichever your reason is for having your birthmark removed, here are some methods to expect:

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy uses intense beams of light to target and destroy the tissue that makes up the birthmark. Each session lasts at least 15 minutes, depending on the size of your birthmark. You may need multiple sessions if your birthmark is large.

Laser therapy can cause redness, swelling, and temporary crusting. There may also be a risk of scarring, especially if you have a darker skin tone.

Your recovery time is generally short. You can expect to return to your normal activities within a few days. 

Also, your ENRICH cosmetic dermatologist may prescribe aftercare to protect the treated area from sunlight and topical ointments for healing.

Surgical

Surgical excision involves cutting away the birthmark and closing the wound with stitches or sutures. This method is often used for large or complex birthmarks that cannot be effectively treated with other methods.

Scarring can be a side effect of surgical excision. There is also a risk of infection and bleeding. Choosing a doctor, dermatologist or plastic surgeon experienced in this type of removal can help to mitigate scarring issues. 

As with laser therapy, surgical excision can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the size and location of your birthmark. The recovery time varies depending on the incision size and the procedure’s complexity. 

Your aftercare involves wound care, pain management, and monitoring for signs of infection. 

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the birthmark, causing the tissue to die and eventually peel off. It is often the go-to procedure for small, raised birthmarks like hemangiomas.

You can expect multiple treatment sessions to remove the birthmark completely. After the last session, there can be blistering, crusting, and scarring. 

Recovery time is generally short, with the treated area crusting over and peeling off. Your aftercare for cryotherapy involves keeping the area clean and dry.

Can I remove my birthmark naturally?

While some birthmarks, particularly those that are small or faint, may fade or disappear on their own over time, there is no guaranteed natural method for complete removal. 

Home remedies, such as applying apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, are often promoted as natural alternatives to medical treatments. But, these methods may be ineffective and can even irritate the skin.

Birthmark Removal at ENRICH

We have different ways to remove birthmarks. Schedule a consultation with us. We will assess your case, recommend appropriate treatment options, and help you weigh the risks and benefits of each course of action.